What is animal chiropractic?

Animal chiropractic is a non-surgical, drug-free treatment that involves adjusting the vertebrae of the spine and/or joints of an animal (via hands or instrument) in order to correct biomechanical dysfunction of the musculoskeletal system. Biomechanical dysfunction, if not corrected, may also cause disturbances in the normal function of other systems (namely, the nervous system.)

 

Daily life – stress, overuse / underuse, excess weight, arthritis / degenerative joint disease, poor nutrition, trauma, and etc. – are a few causes that can cause improper spinal movement, which in turn may cause inflammation of the surrounding tissues (ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves.) Symptoms of an improperly moving spine may be noticeable such as lameness, gait abnormalities, pain, decreased athletic ability, sensitivity to being touched, changes in behavior, changes in routine, and/or changes in posture.

 

However, an improperly functioning musculoskeletal system may also show more subtle signs with respect to nervous system and/or organ function (as the spine and the spinal cord are intimately related). If organs are not receiving normal input from the spinal nerves of the nervous system, they cannot heal and function at a favorable level.

 

Healthy animals are also candidates for receiving chiropractic care. Maintaining proper spinal movement allows for optimal function of muscles, nerves, ligaments, and tendons- which leads to improved mobility, flexibility, endurance, performance, and decreased risk of injury.

 

Chiropractic can be used as part of an integrative wellness program to maintain an animal’s health. Thus, the goal of animal chiropractic care is to restore or maintain normal movement and function to the musculoskeletal system in order to allow for normal neurologic function, which in turn allows the body to function optimally.

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Why do I need a vet referral?

"Chiropractic in Texas is legally restricted to the human body... The manipulation of animals is considered the practice of Veterinary Medicine and must be done only with the permission of the veterinarian in charge of the animal. It is not legally sufficient to manipulate an animal with the permission of the owner but without the permission of the supervising veterinarian."                                  -Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners

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What if my vet won't sign a referral?

Please have your vet call us directly if they have any concerns about referring your pet. We will do everything possible to navigate a path to get your animal the care they deserve. However, if your vet absolutely will not sign a referral, our best advice is to please seek adding an additional veterinarian to your pet's care team. We conveniently provide a list of local veterinarians that may be able to accommodate you in your pursuit of animal chiropractic services.

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How long will it take to get an appointment?

We do our best to get new patients in as soon as possible. However, we cannot book an appointment until we have your vet's referral on file. We will personally contact you once we receive your pet's forms to book an appointment.

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Disclaimer

Our services are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any specific illness or condition and should only be used as a complement to regular and concurrent veterinary care.  Chiropractic care may provide support and encourage the body into its most optimal state of health.  We operate in full compliance with all Texas laws and regulations.  The content provided herein is informational only and is not to be construed as veterinary or medical advice.  Consult your veterinarian before seeking chiropractic care for your animal.

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